Initial Assessment and Opinions Regarding Canon EOS R3 Camera
The Canon EOS R3, announced in September 2021, is a high-end mirrorless camera that offers several advantages and some drawbacks when used for underwater photography and video.
### Benefits:
The EOS R3 features a flagship-level Dual Pixel AF II system with AI autofocus that sticks to subjects reliably, including eye, face, head, and body detection, which is very useful underwater where subjects can move unpredictably. It can shoot at up to 30 frames per second using the electronic shutter, helping capture fast-moving underwater wildlife with precision. The camera also boasts an articulating screen that can assist in composing shots from challenging angles underwater, such as low or awkward perspectives.
The EOS R3's robust design and durable build quality make it suitable for professional use, including in demanding environments like underwater photography. While the exact extent of its in-body image stabilization capabilities is not detailed, Canon’s recent cameras typically feature strong stabilization, which is beneficial underwater where handheld shooting is common.
### Drawbacks:
The EOS R3 is not waterproof itself, so it must be paired with a high-quality underwater housing. While excellent housings are available for similar Canon models, there is no direct reference to R3 housings, which could impact cost and availability.
The camera's fast burst shooting, while impressive, may be limited by buffer depth and card compatibility, which can affect continuous shooting length underwater, particularly when shooting video or fast action sequences. The EOS R3's size and weight might also prove cumbersome during extended dives, potentially causing fatigue.
### Summary:
The Canon EOS R3 is a powerful option for underwater photography and video due to its advanced autofocus, high-speed shooting, and articulating screen, which are well-suited for dynamic underwater environments. However, it requires a dedicated underwater housing for protection, and users should consider the weight, cost, and buffer limitations before choosing it as their primary underwater camera system.
The EOS R3's weather sealing is incredible and on par with Canon's flagship 1DX models, making it useful for underwater shooters in extreme environments. It also performs well in extremely low light situations, with quick autofocus down to -7.5 EV. The camera will be available in late November 2021.
The EOS R3 features Eye Control Autofocus, a new feature that allows photographers to move autofocus points with their eye while looking through the EVF. It also has improved processing power and a lower resolution sensor, which allows for reduced noise in photos and video captured at higher ISOs.
For macro and super macro photography, the Nauticam Super Macro Converter can be used with the Canon 100 mm f/2.8 macro lens to capture sharp images.
- The Canon EOS R3's Dual Pixel AF II system, with its AI autofocus, is effective at tracking subjects, useful in unpredictable underwater environments.
- Shooting at up to 30 frames per second using the electronic shutter, the EOS R3 can capture fast-moving underwater wildlife with precision.
- The camera's articulating screen helps in composing shots from challenging angles underwater, such as low or awkward perspectives.
- The EOS R3's robust design and durable build quality make it suitable for professional use, including underwater photography.
- While the camera's in-body image stabilization capabilities are not detailed, Canon’s recent cameras typically feature strong stabilization, beneficial underwater.
- However, the EOS R3 requires a high-quality underwater housing for protection, and direct reference to R3 housings may impact cost and availability.
- The camera's fast burst shooting may be limited by buffer depth and card compatibility, affecting continuous shooting length underwater.
- The size and weight of the EOS R3 might prove cumbersome during extended dives, potentially causing fatigue.
- For macro and super macro underwater photography, the Nauticam Super Macro Converter can be used with the Canon 100 mm f/2.8 macro lens for capturing sharp images, aided by the EOS R3's impressive focusing capabilities.
